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Tonya Martinez-Hilton Obituary

Martinez-Hilton, Tonya Marie GLENVILLE Tonya Marie Martinez-Hilton, 42, found her way home to the sanctuary of our Lord on Thursday, December 1, 2011. Tonya was born in Schenectady and is the loving daughter of Thomas J. Martinez and Sharon A. (White) Martinez. Tonya was a graduate of South Colonie High School. She joined Union College on January 4, 1992 and served several positions, her latest as an administrative assistant to the department of political science. Shortly after she was diagnosed last spring with her illness, hundreds packed Katie O'Byrnes for "Tunes for Tonya", a fundraiser for the Hiltons. "It was elbow to elbow, you couldn't move," said Paul DiBiase, whose band Grand Central Station, donated their performance. "The outpouring of support was great, and it was so nice to see so many people from Union coming together for Tonya and Mike." The memories of Tonya's smile and laughter will be cherished by those who called her daughter, sister, cousin, aunt and friend. "Hello Sunshine" were the first words spoken as Tonya entered any room. The Hilton household was an amazingly unique and festive place. Tonya's infectious smile, mischievous sense of humor and adoring spirit set the tone for Mike and Tonya's adopted "son" Bailey, a Himalayan cat. In addition to her parents, survivors include her loving husband of 16 years, Michael Hilton; her sisters, Amy C. Martinez of Colonie, Anda L. (Michael) Reinisch of Selkirk, Pepita R. Martinez of Colonie; niece of Lena Clark, E.H. White Sr., Ethel Cullen and Michael White; many loving cousins; and her nephews, Conor and Evan. Tonya will be missed by all who knew her, as she was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Tonya was an avid travel enthusiast, with a special love for Spain and her family's heritage. Tonya also enjoyed cooking, gardening, shopping, and most importantly, spending time with her family, especially while celebrating the holidays. Tonya was a member of the Rotterdam TOPS group and was an inspiration to all. The family would like to pay special thanks to the staff and nurses of Ellis Hospital A-5. Their dedication to Tonya's care will always be remembered. Calling hours 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at the DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 1605 Heldeberg Ave., Rotterdam. Services will begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home thence to Saint John the Evangelist Church, Union Street for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 o'clock. Burial, Memory Gardens, Colonie. Contributions to The Animal Protective Foundation in Scotia, N.Y.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Albany Times Union on Dec. 5, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Tonya Martinez-Hilton

Not sure what to say?





Jamiee Purcell

November 29, 2019

Jenny was so sad the day she lost you. Now the two of you are once again reunited, raising hell in the endless beauty of heaven. Hold her tight as she will you. Keep her company until I get to her. Two amazing people lost way too soon...Only the good so die young.

Kathy Purcell

December 31, 2011

RIP babe RIP

December 13, 2011

Tom and Sharon, I was very sad to hear of Tonya's passing.
I can remember when my mom Marge watched her when she was little, my sympathy to you and the family.
Doug Koppenhofer, Albany, NY

Ruth & Frank Francisco

December 9, 2011

Dear Mike,

Frank and I just learned of Tonya's passing and we are so very sorry for your loss... always try to remember that death is not an end... it is just a door that we cannot enter until it is our time to once again be reunited with our loved ones... One day you will be together again, this I am sure of. So very sorry!

Ruth & Frank Francisco (Windswept)
Scotia, NY

AMY MARTINEZ

December 9, 2011

Tonya you brought so much joy to everyone that have known you. I will remember all the memories that we have shared together. I will never forget you,I dont think anyone could.You were the strongest person I have ever known. You were always someone we could count on to help us out decorating,organizing parties,lawn work etc.. you had so many talents no one could EVER fill your shoes!! I will miss your sense of humor, your laugh, your smile and YOU.I LOVE YOU ALWAYS AND FOREVER AMY

Cindy,Greg,Ashley Matt Carr

December 8, 2011

Tom,Sharon,Amy,Anda,and Peppy
We are so sorry for your loss.I remember when i first met you all the girls were so little, they are all beautiful young women now.I hold all of those memories near and dear..
Tonya will always be watching over all of you..And when you least expect it you will feel her presence...
much love to you all...

Tiffany Loupias-Young

December 8, 2011

I am sorry for your loss my prayers are with you

Jamiee Purcell Patterson

December 7, 2011

Mike and Bailey, My deepest sympathy to you both, please remember that you were as much her angel as she was your' s. You took on and faced this battle as bravely as she did. How lucky you all were to have each other. As hard as it is, and as much as it hurt's, let her "Sunshine" continue to beam on you daily... You all are in my thoughts and prayers RIP sweet lady!! Jamiee Purcell Patterson~

Vickie DiCioccio

December 7, 2011

Sharon, Tom, Amy, Anda and Pepita,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter and sister. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Maureen Unser

December 6, 2011

To the martinez family you all are in my prayers. May all the wonderful thoughts of Tonya be the part you cherish the most.. The friend/family of Avila will always be there in need.Tonya is at peace now.

Chris Herbert

December 6, 2011

To the Martinez family, I am truly saddened by your loss. Tonya was a fantastic person with a true zest for life. She will be sorely missed. If there is anything I can do for you or anyone in your family, please don't hesitate to ask. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Anda Reinisch

December 6, 2011

My special sister, I want you to know how much you mean to me.
My special sister has strength and courage her whole family can see.
My special sister showed us all how to handle life's blows.
My special sister took it all in stride, smiled, and said, “That's how it goes”.
My special sister, through all her pain, never once gave up or complained.
My special sister has dignity, warmth, and inner beauty that can't be explained.
My special sister, with all she was going through, always thought of others.
My special sister always took time to give of herself to friends, sisters and brothers.
My special sister was always there with her kind thoughts, deeds, and caring.
My special sister is well known and loved for her capacity for sharing.
My special sister needs to know how much she means to those who love her, especially me.
My special sister's strength, courage, and beauty are a shining example for all to see.
My special sister has carried a heavy burden for quite a long while.
My special sister would not allow us to share any of her pain but always her smile.
My special sister is surely a guardian angel sent from above.
My special sister, these heartfelt words are for you, from all of us who care, with all our love.

Ruthie Fafard

December 6, 2011

There are not enough words in the dictionary to express what A special person Tonya was, there is A hold in my Heart now because of her leaving and we will never forget her.
I am sure if tears could build bridges and Love could build highways we would all go up to Heaven and bring her home again.

We miss you Little girl

Ruthie and Paul

Valerie Bachinsky

December 6, 2011

To Amy, Marty, Sharon and family,

Please accept my sincere condolences for the death of Tonya. It has been many years since I have seen Tonya but what I remember most is her great sense of humor, her contagious laugh, and the sparkle in her eye when she flashed her bright smile. She had a charismatic personality and a great presence; I'm sure she will be missed by many.

I know words do little to lessen grief at a time like this. May you take comfort in the arms of each other and in knowing that Tonya is no longer suffering.

My heart goes out to you during this time of great sadness.

With deepest sympathy,

Valerie Bachinsky

joe Di Cioccio

December 6, 2011

I'am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember her laugh and great smile. Growing up in the neighborhood and remembering her as a child and a Lady was a great honor. She will be missed. My prayers go out to Mike , Bailey and all the Martinez Family. She is at Peace.

joey d.

LANA SHERIDAN-LIUZZI

December 6, 2011

PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES TO ALL

Julie & Dann Carrigan

December 5, 2011

Dear Sharon,Tom,Mike,Amy,Anda and Pepita,
Our deepest sympathy and love to all of you. Tonya has been in our thoughts and prayers since I first learned of her illness last summer. Peace to each of you.
"May the choirs of Angels come to greet her. May they speed her to paradise. May the Lord enfold her in His mercy. May she find eternal life"
Julie and Dann

December 5, 2011

December 05, 2011
Michael,
Words cannot express the sympathy Sheila and I have for you. We never had the priveledge of having met Tonya but know the joy you, Tonya and Lori brought to my mom's life and from everything I have read about Tonya, she brought joy to the lives of so many others as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Bailey at this very difficult time in your lives. Always remember that God is good and He needed her more with Him than here on earth.

God Bless Tonya, while He looks over you and Bailey.

Steve and Sheila Ellis

John Vero

December 5, 2011

Your family, and Tonya, will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.

joe zembrzuski

December 5, 2011

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

David Dobbs

December 5, 2011

I spent my young life growing up with and within the Martinez family and even today have nothing but enormous fond memories of you all, Tonya was an amazing person and I truly have a hole in my heart but it will heal know that is forever where I will carry her now and forever!! To the entire family you are in my hearts as well at this very hard time! Blessed be!!

Diane Jordan

December 5, 2011

Mary Gomez-Cartwright

December 5, 2011

No words can ease your pain at this time. Only time and God's grace can heal you. I am so very sorry for your loss. Tonya has no more pain now and walks with our Lord. May she rest in peace. I will pray that my dear friend, Tracy, who passed June 10 from that viscous cancer, will help to guide Tonya in heaven. God bless you all and I will pray for your comfort in this very sad time.

Tammy Blanchard - Sprague

December 5, 2011

To the Martinez and Hilton Families,

I was honored to have went to high school with Tonya and graduated with her in 1988. We also lived in the same neighborhood. She was a wonderful person who always could make you laugh and smile. We were not close but I definitely would say we were friends! She was nice to everyone.

The world lost a beautiful person on December 1st but Heaven gained an angel. She fought very hard but apparently God needed her more than we did.

Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Tammy Blanchard - Sprague

Melissa Baldwin

December 5, 2011

Pepita & family, I am truly sorry for your loss and for the pain your family has been going through during these hard times. In my handful of encounters with Tonya, she was always smiling and welcoming. Cherish the memories. Rest in Peace Tonya.

December 5, 2011

My dearest Tonya, Now we have our own special angel watching over the entire family. May you rest in peace my loved one...Til we meet again.
Auntie Lee and Chris

Kathy Grock

December 5, 2011

Pepita and Family,
Words can't express how sorry I am for the loss of your sister. You and your family are in my thoughts. Rest in Peace Tonya.

Angela Tatem

December 5, 2011

May God provide much comfort to Michael and family as you mourn and remember the caring and beautiful Tonya, what great love she had for people and animals.

amy santandrea

December 5, 2011

Pepita,
No words can comfort you at this time...the sun will shine again, and a sisters love is never far. You and your family are in my thoughts at this time...Celebrate your sister and the person she was.
Sincerely, Amy Santandrea (Aunt Amy-Kathryn Boomhower's aunt)

Barbara m--Jones

December 5, 2011

Sharon And Tom my heart goes out to both of you. and to the rest of your family.

Jeanette Borger

December 5, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers to you, Mike, and the entire Martinez & Hilton family. Tonya was an amazing lady with an infectious smile and I am lucky to have known her. I am sorry for your loss--she was taken too soon... May the memories in your hearts carry you through this most difficult time.
All our love, Jeanette, Caitlin & Meghan

December 5, 2011

My heartfelt sadness to all in the Clan. Thinking of you this week. -Hags

God's Hand Reaching Down

Michael Hilton

December 5, 2011

I will always remeber the laughs and fun times that we cherished. I will always remember that the best time of the year for you was Christmas. I knew that when I married an angel that god would want you back someday. I just did not expect it this soon. Love you always, Michael

Missing You

Bailey Martinez-Hilton

December 5, 2011

I wait for you by the door but you don't come home. I visited you in the hospital and knew that you were sick. I miss you so that I sleep in your spot on the bed. Thank you for being part of my life. Bailey

December 5, 2011

Dear Martinez family and Mike
I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Tonya, but know Pepita from nursing school. I can't imagine the pain you all must be feeling. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Angela Cox

meaghan nichols

December 5, 2011

Pepita and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.Stay strong.

Rick Jabjiniak

December 5, 2011

Tonya, I will miss your smile and your laugh. When you and Mike walked into Panera you always made my day a little brighter. You were a wonderful neighbor and friend and I will miss your fun lighthearted spirit. My deepest sympathies for you and your family. May God Bless You Sunshine.

Karen Dagostino

December 5, 2011

I will miss your smile and bright eyes.

Darlene O'Donnell - A5

December 5, 2011

I am so sorry to all of you for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

BETTY ONDROVICH

December 5, 2011

TO MICHAEL, AND FAMILY, I AM SO TRUELY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSE, MAY GOD HELP YOU THROUGH THIS HARD TIME, AND HELP YOU,FROM YOUR BETTY, KINGMAN AZ,

Missing You

Bailey Hilton

December 5, 2011

I lay on your side of the bed awaiting your return. The sun rises and you are still not here. I came to the hospital to visit you and I knew that you were sick. I miss you and all the fun we had together.

December 5, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to the Martinez and Hilton families. May you keep Tonya's spirit alive by sharing fond memories. With love and peace, Lisa DiCocco and Ryan Nix

Joe Dragon

December 5, 2011

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. You and your family are in my thoughts,prayers and heart. Love you Tonya.

Gerri Mead-Casso

December 5, 2011

Good night Sunshine, I'll be talking to you. Love, Gerri

December 5, 2011

Tonya You will be missed and loved by all. Remembering the fun times we spent working at Union and other times spent here with us. Love you Deb Cianfarani

Jenny Carey

December 5, 2011

The world has certainly lost a GREAT person I will miss her sooo much!!!!! Rest in Peace my friend until we meet again!!!!!! Love you.

Linda Fortin

December 5, 2011

Tonya was one of the best neighbors anyone could have. So friendly and always offering to help. I'm sure my mom was there to great her in heaven! You will be missed! God bless you and Mike and your family.

Jen, KK, and Wayman Walker

December 5, 2011

We love you Tonya!! Thank you for all the laughs and happy times! Rest in peace and we will miss you so much!

Melissa Spadaro-Kahler

December 5, 2011

I deepest condolences to all of you. So sorry for your loss and the pain you are feeling. Just know that Tonya is with God now and her suffering has been taken away. She is with you always. An Angel is truly among you.

Ed Kardas

December 5, 2011

My good friend Mike, I'm so very sorry for your tremendous loss. Both you and Tonya continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace Tonya.

The Veeders

December 5, 2011

When I think of Tonya I remember the kind and generous disposition she always had. She ALWAYS looked out for everyone. Always making sure everyone was take care of before herself. I still chuckle inside when I think of what she use to call me "Beazley!" lol. She was funny.
This week, I will continue to celebrate her life and keep in my mind the wonderful things she did for others when she was here.
God Bless Tonya.
XO- The Veeders

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